A TOTAL of 13 newly trained K9 handlers were officially introduced during a passing-out parade at the Queen Nandi Mounted Rifle Regiment last week.

The parade was hosted by the Durban Metro Police Service (DMPS) where teams demonstrated their capabilities in drug detection, suspect tracking, tactical response and combating illegal activities.

Also at the event was the City’s deputy mayor and chairperson of the Public Safety Committee, Zandile Myeni.

Myeni delivered the keynote address on behalf of the City, and Durban Metro Police Commissioner Sibonelo Mchunu addressed graduates and their families.

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In his address, the Commissioner highlighted the challenges faced in sourcing and training police dogs, emphasising that despite these difficulties, the Unit has successfully secured 20 dogs, with 13 fully trained K9s and their handlers passing out.

Mchunu added the milestone marks a significant step forward in strengthening DMPS operational capacity in crime prevention, detection, and public safety.

“We are determined to make Durban a safer city, not only for the visitors who come to our shores but also for the residents of the city. That is a priority for us. The addition of the new K9 handlers strengthens the Metro Police and our specialised K9 unit and helps the City move closer to achieving its Integrated Development Plans (IDPs),” he said.

While the commissioner encouraged the members to uphold the values of integrity and accountability, he also praised their dedication to their canine counterparts.

“Essentially a dog handler has double duties because they aren’t just looking after themselves but also their dogs. They have to ensure their dogs are up to the standard needed,” he said.

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